The N159 star-forming complex in the Large Magellanic Cloud is a stunning example of an active star formation region. Though its much larger neighbour, the Tarantula Nebula, captures more attention (thanks to stunning images like the one from the JWST ) N159 is gorgeous in its own right. N159 spans 150 light-years and contains many hot young stars. It's one of the largest star-forming regions in the LMC, though this image shows just a small part of it. A complete count of its stars is near impossible, since much of the region is obscured by thick dust. In star-forming regions like this, radiation and winds from the star sculpt thick clouds of hydrogen gas into eerie, almost supernatural arrangements. As they shine, they also ionize the hydrogen, giving the scene an irridescent, red glow, that's both inviting and frightening. The brightest regions in the image are where hot young stars are concentrated. They're carving out cavernous openings in the gas and in some cases appear to be blowing bubbles.…